Blood & Magnolias: A Spicy Vampire Romance Short Story

by S.T. Fernandez

A promise is a promise. Blakely Wells is determined to hold the mysterious Preston Devaroux to his word. What she wants?

To become a vampire.

Like him.

Beneath the blooming magnolias of their favorite tree between their two estates, Preston insists his promise was made out of weakness and a selfish desire to keep her forever. But when Blakely refuses to accept his rejection, Preston warns her of the darker, more seductive side of his nature—a promise to claim her body and her blood.

In a spicy short story that is sure to keep readers hooked, find out whether Blakely wins her bid to become a vampire or if Preston decides to part from the one he loves.

Forevermore.

Blood & Magnolias is a paranormal romance short story intended for readers aged 18 and up.

38 pages, ebook

Published July 17, 2025

About the author

S.T. Fernandez (a.k.a. Stephanie) is a Latinx, award-winning author originally from Orlando, Florida. She now lives in the charming beach town of Ventura, California, with her husband and their two spirited wiener dogs.

Stephanie holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Saint Leo University and has been a lifelong fan of romantic fiction, particularly fantasy and paranormal romance. As a proud BookFest Award winner, she crafts immersive stories that transport readers to vivid, emotional worlds filled with magic, passion, and heart.

When she’s not writing or marketing like a mad woman, you’ll likely find her on the patio soaking up the California sun, a glass of red wine in one hand and a book in the other—probably one with a swoon-worthy shadow daddy and a strong, unforgettable heroine.

Reviews

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

They meet under a tree, she begs him to turn her and he argues with her that she’s too young and demands she finishes college first. Two years later she begs him again and he says okay but first he’s got to have defile her first. She agrees so they have sex and he immediately turns her. The end.

[Carrie West · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yo! I need this to become a novel immediately. This gave off Twilight (before the love triangle) meets True Blood (in the beginning when Sookie and Bill weren’t insufferable twats). Preston didn’t want to damn Blakely’s soul for eternal damnation, but he also wanted to keep her at his side forever. That just means we love him and we need more of him. As a beach grail, I do not support Blakely’s want to become a vampire on purpose. Not being able to feel the sun on my skin as I drank fruity beverages while reading books would make me the saddest vampire ever. At the same time, if it meant I would find my own Eric Northman, where are sign ups?

[Jazzy Mermaid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced. Enticing. A wonderful Vampire Short story of two hearts craving each other. Preston made a deal and Blakely made sure he held his end. For eternity in love.

✨️📚✨️

[Jenn Z · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast and easy to read

It gets right to the point almost like a fever dream
🥵

[Dani · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the only age gap romance I can tolerate. 20+ years old and 150+. This got right down to business.

[Melissa Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this vampire spicy novella. This is my first book from S. and def will be reading more from her!

[Virginia Mae Benedict · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really romantic vampire love story. She fell in love with a vampire and eventually wanted to become one to be with him forever. This book definitely gives Twilight feelings.

[Nellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blood & Magnolias makes impressive use of its short length, delivering a spicy romance with real substance. The chemistry is immediate, the tension is well‑paced, and the emotional beats land without feeling rushed. Fernandez’s writing is confident and atmospheric, giving the story more weight than the page count suggests. A solid, satisfying novella that’s easy to devour in one sitting.